itisSheldon wrote:
While in third blank distinct fits well, imo Subjective also can be a proper fit. Since connotation refers to secondary meaning which can be subjective i guess
Carcass your opinion?
The etymology of the synonym is: a word or phrase alike in meaning in the same language.
Now, Veener slightly disagrees with this: it is true that a synonym means what I just mentioned but not only that. To understand the real essence of synonym we need to catch the denotation, connotation, the context, AND the distinctiveness of a synonym.
Remember: the synonyms are also distinct one another. They are in meaning alike but are not the same 100%. For this reason, we need distinct as 3rd blank. Subjective is out of scope. Nothing in the sentence leads us to infer about something related to a personal or intimate opinion.
Hope this helps.
Regards